Seller Disclosure in Queensland: What Every Seller Needs to Know
Selling a property in Queensland is about to change in a significant way. With the Property Law Act 2023 coming into effect on 1 August 2025, the introduction of a new seller disclosure regime means property owners will carry a much greater responsibility to provide buyers with important information before a contract is signed.
For anyone preparing to sell, this isn’t something to take lightly. Failure to comply could result in the buyer walking away from the deal.
Why seller disclosure is changing
Queensland has traditionally operated under a “buyer beware” system. While sellers had some disclosure obligations, buyers were largely expected to carry out their own due diligence through searches and inspections.
The new framework flips that on its head. The government’s intention is to give buyers more certainty and reduce disputes by requiring sellers to disclose a standard set of information up front.
What sellers will need to disclose
The disclosure will be provided in a seller disclosure statement and will need to include:
- A current title search and plan of the property
- Notices or orders affecting the property (e.g. QCAT or QBCC)
- Information about zoning and environmental issues
- Details of any registered encumbrances, such as easements or covenants
- For units or townhouses, body corporate certificates and relevant records
This means sellers can no longer rely on buyers “finding out later” through their solicitor. Instead, all of this must be compiled before the contract is signed.
Risks of getting it wrong
If the disclosure is not delivered in the approved form, or if key information is missing, the buyer will generally have a statutory right to terminate the contract. This could cause a deal to collapse even after weeks of marketing and negotiation.
Even worse, sellers who fail to disclose honestly may face claims for misrepresentation or breach of statutory obligations.
How sellers can prepare
- Engage early – Contact your solicitor or conveyancer before listing the property so the disclosure can be prepared in advance.
- Collect records – Body corporate details, approvals, or notices should be gathered ahead of time.
- Be transparent – If you’re aware of issues such as flooding history or boundary disputes, disclose them upfront.
- Work with your agent – Agents should be briefed on what has been disclosed so they can confidently deal with buyer enquiries.
Why this benefits both parties
While sellers may see this as “more red tape,” there are long-term advantages. A standardised disclosure regime will reduce uncertainty, limit disputes, and speed up the sales process. Buyers will enter contracts with greater confidence, and sellers will have fewer surprises during negotiations.
Final thoughts
From August 2025, seller disclosure will no longer be an optional extra in Queensland property transactions—it will be the law. Sellers who prepare early, stay transparent, and work with experienced professionals will find the process smoother and less risky.
In short, disclosure is not just a compliance exercise—it’s a tool to protect your sale and build trust with buyers.
This is general advice only, for specific legal advice speak with your legal representative or give Sunstate Conveyancing a call on 07 3828 2069.
